Oodles Basket

Oodles Basket by Knit and Crochet Ever After

What is Being Made

The Oodles Basket is a knitted container project designed by Deja Joy. This basket measures approximately 28 inches around and 9 inches tall, making it a practical storage solution that combines functional design with handmade craftsmanship. The project is worked from the top down, creating a finished piece suitable for organizing and storing items in any room.

Techniques Used

This basket employs several key knitting techniques to achieve its structure and appearance. The pattern is worked in the round using circular needles, which allows for seamless construction. The designer intentionally uses needles smaller than those recommended on the yarn ball band to create a dense fabric. This technique is crucial for the basket's functionality, as it produces a tight stitch that prevents sagging and maintains the basket's shape and integrity. The pattern includes decreasing rounds, which may be worked using double-pointed needles as needed to shape the basket as stitches are reduced.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern used throughout the Oodles Basket is a knit and purl ribbing stitch. The pattern instructions specify alternating knit one and purl one stitches around each round, creating the characteristic ribbed texture. This ribbed stitch pattern not only contributes to the visual appeal of the basket but also adds elasticity and structure to the finished piece, helping it maintain its cylindrical form.

Materials and Tools

The Oodles Basket requires 200 yards of super bulky weight yarn. The pattern specifies Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick and Quick in Fisherman (colorway 099) as the recommended yarn, with each skein containing 170 grams and 106 yards. This yarn choice provides the weight and texture necessary for a quick-to-knit project. Any super bulky weight yarn may be substituted if desired.

Essential tools for this project include:

• Size 8 (5mm) circular needle, 24 inches long, for the main construction
• Set of double-pointed needles in Size 8 (5mm) for decreasing rounds if needed
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends
• Five stitch markers total—four matching markers for pattern repeats and one contrasting marker to indicate the beginning of rounds

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 14 stitches and 10 rows over 4 inches when measured in pattern. The finished basket measures approximately 28 inches in circumference and 9 inches in height, creating a generous-sized storage basket.

Skill Level

The Oodles Basket is rated as an Easy, beginner-friendly project, making it an excellent choice for knitters new to circular needle work or those looking for a straightforward, satisfying make. The simple knit and purl ribbing stitch and the use of super bulky yarn mean the basket works up quickly, typically allowing crafters to complete the project in just a few hours of knitting time.